Phenethyl Alcohol
Also known as: phenylethyl alcohol, phenyl ethyl alcohol
Curly Girl Method Status
Phenethyl Alcohol is a volatile (drying) alcohol. The Curly Girl Method classifies it as Caution because short-chain alcohols evaporate quickly and can dry out hair over time. They're commonly used as solvents in styling products.
Products Containing Phenethyl Alcohol (84)

Alterna
Alterna Caviar MHMC Begin Again Curl Conditioner 1000ml
Alterna
Alterna My Hair. My Canvas. Begin Again Cleanser 201 ml
Alterna
Alterna My Hair. My Canvas. Begin Again Cleanser 40 ml
Alterna
Alterna My Hair. My Canvas. Begin Again Cleanser 976 ml
Alterna
Alterna My Hair. My Canvas. Begin Again Conditioner 201 ml
Alterna
Alterna My Hair. My Canvas. Begin Again Conditioner 976 ml
Related Ingredients in Volatile Alcohols
Frequently Asked Questions about Phenethyl Alcohol
Is Phenethyl Alcohol curly girl approved?
Phenethyl Alcohol is classified as Caution in the Curly Girl Method. It's not strictly banned, but some curlies choose to avoid it. It's a Volatile Alcohols in the Alcohols group.
What is Phenethyl Alcohol used for in hair products?
Phenethyl Alcohol belongs to the Volatile Alcohols category in the Alcohols group. It's found in various hair care products as either a moisturising or drying agent depending on its type.
What products contain Phenethyl Alcohol?
Our database contains 84 products that list Phenethyl Alcohol in their ingredients. Browse the products section above to see their full CG analysis.
What are curly girl approved alternatives to Phenethyl Alcohol?
Look for products that use CG-approved ingredients from the same Alcohols group. Check our ingredient database for approved alternatives in related categories.